State Police in the Fingerlakes are preparing for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8.
Troopers are working with other state, local, and federal law enforcement, emergency services, and transportation agencies to keep locals and tourists alike safe during the rare event.
With an influx of visitors to the region, troopers are concerned about a variety of potential issues, including stranded motorists, gridlocked traffic, and an increase in calls to 911. To
Troop E Headquarters in Canandaigua will serve as the command post for all trooper operations with forward operating bases being established at trooper barracks in Auburn, Bath, and Rochester. Each county will also house an Emergency Operations Center.
The New York State Police make the following recommendations based on expectations:
– Plan on staying in the region the night of the event.
– If you can’t stay, fuel/charge up the day before the event.
– Have extra food and water in your vehicle for your trip; shop the day before.
– Local residents should avoid the roadways after the event.
– Have cellphones charged and bring chargers with you.
– Schools are recommended to have the day off or a half-day.
– Plan on being in traffic for an extended period.
– Plan on viewing the event from designated viewing sites.
– If you are going to view the eclipse, ensure you use the appropriate approved glasses.
– If from out of the area, don’t use vehicles that can’t travel for ten-plus hours without charging – stranded EVs in traffic will be towed.